Recall: Oxidizer Increaser Tablets for Swimming Pools Recall

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT:Ken Giles
July 31, 1997	(301) 504-7052
Release # 97-166

CPSC, Zeneca Pool Products Announce Recall of Oxidizer Increaser Tablets for Swimming Pools

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Zeneca Pool Products of Wilmington, Del., is voluntarily recalling about 17,000 boxes of BAQUA PLUSTM Oxidizer Increaser tablets. The tablets are used to help maintain the clarity of swimming pool water. The tablets could degrade and expand beyond their protective packaging at high temperatures. Contact with the chemicals in these tablets, sodium perborate and sodium bisulfate, can burn the eyes and irritate the skin, respiratory passages and mucous membrane.

Zeneca Pool Products has received 20 reports of the tablets degrading and expanding beyond their protective packaging. No injuries have been reported.

The recalled tablets are packaged in a mostly blue cardboard carton with 16 individually sealed pouches. Each pouch contains two large white tablets, measuring 3-5/6 inches wide and 1 inch thick. Each white plastic pouch has blue labeling on one side that reads in part, "BAQUA PLUSTM Oxidizer Increaser...This Is Not Chlorine...Do not mix with other chemicals...Minimize skin contact."

Authorized BAQUACIL dealers nationwide sold the tablets from March 1997 through June 1997 for about $35. Consumers should stop using the tablets immediately and inspect the tablets for signs of degradation, which is indicated by slimy tablets, expanded pouches or carton, and moist or wet cardboard. If degradation is visible, consumers should contact Zeneca Pool Products toll-free at (888) 203-7726 between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. EDT Monday through Friday for proper handling instructions and the location of the nearest authorized BAQUACIL dealer. If degradation is not visible, consumers should return the tablets to the BAQUACIL dealer where purchased for a full refund or exchange for another product.